Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi continue to astound fans around the globe, even as they edge closer to the latter stages of their football careers. Despite being in their late 30s, both athletes consistently deliver exceptional performances for their respective teams, showcasing a level of longevity and endurance that is rare in professional sports.
Cristiano Ronaldo, currently playing for Al Nassr, recently achieved the remarkable milestone of 900 career goals at the age of 39, edging ever closer to an astonishing 1,000 career goals. His performances this season have been nothing short of inspiring, contributing five goals for his Saudi Arabian club and adding two more while representing Portugal. Ronaldo’s consistent ability to find the back of the net has been a testament to his dedication, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
On the other hand, Lionel Messi has proven once again why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. The Argentine icon played a pivotal role in leading his national team to World Cup glory in 2022, where he scored seven goals and earned the prestigious title of the tournament’s best player. Now 37 years old, Messi is continuing his footballing journey with Inter Miami in the MLS. Despite the change of leagues, his influence remains undiminished, having contributed an impressive 16 goals and 12 assists from just 18 appearances during the 2024 season.
While their exceptional skill and talent are undeniable, a significant factor contributing to Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi’s sustained peak performance lies in their commitment to health and recovery. Both players have long embraced a disciplined approach to their physical well-being, and one key element of their regimen is the attention they place on sleep. According to Dr. Eduard Estivill, a renowned expert in sleep medicine, the duo’s meticulous sleep habits have played a vital role in maintaining their fitness and reducing the risk of injuries.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi: Health Habits That Fuel Their Ageless Performances
Dr. Estivill has shared insights into how both footballers prioritize rest, with Messi reportedly sleeping for 11 hours daily, including naps. This routine allows him to recover fully from the physical demands of training and matches. Similarly, Cristiano Ronaldo, who also follows a strict sleep schedule, goes so far as to employ a sleep coach to guide his recovery. Ronaldo’s commitment to optimizing his rest is no surprise, given his reputation for seeking out any edge to maintain his elite status in the sport. His approach includes taking up to five naps a day, a strategy that helps him stay sharp and physically prepared for the intense challenges of top-level football.
Ronaldo’s commitment to optimizing his rest is no surprise, given his reputation for seeking out any edge to maintain his elite status in the sport. His approach includes taking up to five naps a day, a strategy that helps him stay sharp and physically prepared for the intense challenges of top-level football.
Sleep, as Dr. Estivill explained, plays a crucial role in preventing muscle injuries, a common issue for athletes who fail to get sufficient rest. The amount of energy these players expend during matches and training requires them to be diligent in their recovery, with sleep serving as a cornerstone of that process.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s expertise in health and fitness has also extended beyond football. He has been known to offer advice to other high-profile athletes, including British boxer Anthony Joshua. Ahead of his recent fight with Daniel Dubois, Joshua revealed that Ronaldo shared valuable insights regarding his nutrition and training routines, emphasizing the importance of rest. According to Joshua, this advice was a “game-changer” in how he approached his preparation.
The commitment of both Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi to maintaining their bodies in peak condition, even in their late 30s, is a clear indication of why they have remained at the top of their sport for so long. By focusing on critical aspects like sleep, nutrition, and recovery, they have set a standard for longevity and excellence that few athletes can match. Their approach highlights the importance of not just physical training but also the often-overlooked aspects of recovery that can extend a career and maintain high-level performance.
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